Breastfeeding, lump, biopsy, mastitis, confused
Hi all- I am a new mom, have been breastfeeding for 3 months. A month ago I found a grape sized lump on my left breast (no pain), thinking it was a clogged duct, I tried all my usual tricks and it didn't budge. Two weeks later, I went in to the ob, she said it was likely a clogged duct, but would order an ultrasound for my peace of mind. The ultrasound found a mass that did not look "too suspicious". Oval shaped (non spiculated), lymph nodes looked fine. Since I am lactating the radiologist suggested imaging three month later and said it was likely a lactating adenoma. I had a lot of questions and ultimately, was given the option of a biopsy, which I took. I've lost several family members to cancer and know early intervention is key.
I had a vacuum assisted core needle biopsy last Friday 11/5, results were in this Monday:
Core biopsy of left breast 10:00, 6 cm from nipple:
- Acute and chronic mastitis with granulation tissue and
foreign body giant cell reaction.
- Portions of lactating breast.
This is benign and concordant with imaging findings.
> Recommend appropriate therapy treatment in the setting of acute on chronic mastoiditis. Return to risk appropriate screening.
I have no idea what this means, my doctor is saying mastitis and prescribing 14 days of antibiotics, but I have no systemic signs of infection- no fever, chills, etc. My milk supply is also stable (left breast produces twice as much milk actually)
Since the biopsy, I have developed skin thickening at the biopsy site/ surrounding area, and the lump feels larger.
My left breast has also always been slightly larger, but as of a month ago it is now noticeably larger.
I am not sure if this is something I should keep aggressively pursuing, or just go with the 14 days of antibiotics and re-assess then. From my research something like IBC is usually missed at first and I am terrified something was missed.
Comments
-
Sorry you are here and have concerns about your breast health. Your biopsy says you have a benign condition. The foreign body giant cell reaction is an overreaction to some perceived injury or inclusion. Your increased lump size since biopsy might be a continuation of that overreaction. I have just recently had that happen myself -- I was biopsied, which found foreign body giant cell reaction, and after biopsy even more lumpiness arose around the biopsy site.
I'm GUESSING here -- I'm NOT a doctor! -- but I'm guessing you had an infection or blocked duct, which started the process. Here is the Mayo Clinic link about mastitis, which implies that not all mastitis (which I think technically means swollen breast) is infection.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mas...
If it were me, I would use the antibiotics as your doctor has prescribed. If it doesn't improve, be sure to follow up with the doctor.
But rest assured, the biopsy shows this is NOT cancer.
-
I had it a lot when I breast fed my kids and was in the same situation and worried as well. Hang in there. The hormonal changes alone after a new baby do a lot with you as well. If you are worried after your dose is over with the meds is over call your doc again and let them know as well.
-
That's a great path report indicating non malignant results.
Definitely follow up if no change or worsening symptoms in 14 days. btw, you don't need fever or other systemic symptoms to have mastitis.
yay you for breastfeeding & I hope you keep going a nice long time
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